How to Protect a Wood Table With Glass

Glass can be cut in any shape.

The last thing you want to see on your beautiful wood tabletop are scratches, dings, dents or gouges. Even messy fingerprints, spills and crumbs mar the appearance of your table. Unprotected wood requires more care and cleaning. While tablecloths may be an attractive option, they hide the beauty of the wood. One of the best options for protecting your wood tabletop is with tempered glass. It's durable, easy to clean and see-through, so you can enjoy the beauty of your table.

Measure First

Getting tempered glass for your table is relatively easy. First, measure the top of the table. If it's square or rectangular, measure width and length. Measure a round tabletop across its widest point. If it has an unusual shape, such as rounded ends, you will need to trace the top of the table onto paper.

Trace a Template

To trace the tabletop, tape together enough sheets of newspaper to hang over the edges of the table by 6 inches or so. Lay the paper on top of the table and secure it with heavy objects such as bags of flour or sugar, or heavy pots. Carefully trace the edge of the tabletop onto the paper. Use a permanent marker that's a contrasting color to the newspaper. Score the marking as much as possible to further define the edge. Verify your work by checking the measurements of different parts of the tabletop against your template.

Find a Glass Supplier

You'll need to take the newspaper template you created to a reliable glass supplier. Call around and get quotes. Ask about delivery options and charges. Glass is, of course, notoriously fragile, and its best to leave transportation to the experts who know how to handle large pieces of glass. Additionally, they'll be responsible for breakage until the moment they place it on your table.

Consider Edge Options

Think about the kind of edge you want on for your glass. The different kinds of edges available are seamed, flat polish, pencil and beveled. The glass supplier will be able to show you examples in the company's showroom. Make sure you get an adequate thickness. While tempered glass is durable, it can break. Get the thickest glass that still looks attractive.

Use Clear Pads

When the glass is delivered, be sure that the glass company provides clear pads to sit between the glass and the wood table. This further protects the wood. If you must pick up and install the glass yourself, be sure you get these from your glass supplier.

Clean the Table

Before the glass is placed on the table, give the top of the table a thorough cleaning. Once the glass is in place, you won't want to move it to clean.

About the Author

Matt Smolsky has been writing for more than 25 years. He wrote news, sports and feature stories for the "Omaha World-Herald" and other publications and has continued on in direct marketing and general advertising. He now writes for the web as well. He holds a Bachelor of Arts in history and journalism from the University of Nebraska-Omaha.